[From Kawaguchi to the World: Shakespeare] Oizumi Kojo to co-host a press conference and open rehearsal for the triumphant return of the Japanese theatre company 'Kakushinhan', which will open the world's largest Shakespeare festival.
The stage production 'Shin-Titus', which premiered at Oizumi Kojo, has been officially invited to open the Craiova International Shakespeare Festival in Romania.
Oizumi Kojo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kawaguchi, Saitama; CEO: Kantaro Oizumi; hereinafter 'Oizumi Kojo') is pleased to announce that the stage production 'Shin-Titus', performed in 2023 at the company's 'OKS CAMPUS', has been officially invited as the opening act for the 'Craiova International Shakespeare Festival 2026', the world's largest international festival dedicated to Shakespeare, held in Romania. To mark this achievement, Oizumi Kojo will hold a press conference with the theatre company 'Kakushinhan' on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, followed by an open rehearsal on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
From Kawaguchi to the World: Shakespeare. Background of the Press Conference and Open Rehearsal with Kakushinhan
'Shin-Titus' is a reinterpretation of Shakespeare's 'Titus Andronicus' directed by Ryunosuke Kimura. The production, which reconstructs the play by incorporating the spirituality of traditional Japanese Noh while focusing on prayers for a modern society plagued by war and division, premiered in 2023 at 'WAREHOUSE', a community space converted from a former factory on the Oizumi Kojo premises.
Overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the production was highly acclaimed not only for its artistic quality but also for its immersive staging that utilized the unconventional 'warehouse' space, effectively expanding the possibilities of the venue.
Now, the production has been selected as the opening act for the 2026 edition of the 'Craiova International Shakespeare Festival', which features participants from over 40 countries. It is a significant milestone for a Japanese production to open a festival that has previously featured world-renowned directors such as Peter Brook, Robert Lepage, Robert Wilson, and Yukio Ninagawa.
Oizumi Kojo serves as a hub for creating and disseminating culture, and we are committed to co-creating new value alongside artists. Ahead of the international performances, we are pleased to offer the following opportunities for the public and media.
Press Conference
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 13:00–15:00
Venue: Oizumi Kojo 'WAREHOUSE' (5-4-1 Ryoke, Kawaguchi, Saitama, within OKS CAMPUS)
*Details and reservation methods will be announced at a later date.
Open Rehearsal
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026 (Daytime)
Venue: Oizumi Kojo 'WAREHOUSE' (5-4-1 Ryoke, Kawaguchi, Saitama, within OKS CAMPUS)
*Details and reservation methods for the day will be announced later.
Members of the media wishing to cover the press conference, please contact: [email protected]
Oizumi Kojo has been developing initiatives that transcend local, cultural, and community boundaries, extending beyond sustainable food, agriculture, and wellness. At our 'OKS CAMPUS', in addition to sustainable market events, we are actively engaged in the creation and dissemination of culture and art.
This project embodies Oizumi Kojo's commitment to 'co-creating with artists and disseminating culture.' Through this opportunity for a stage production born in Kawaguchi to take flight on the world stage, Oizumi Kojo will continue to strengthen its role as a hub for creative activities and new cultural expression.
■ Cast & Staff
Titus Andronicus: Tsuneo Yamai (Kongo School Noh Performer)
Lavinia: Fuka Haruna
Saturninus: Go Kijima (SPAC)
Tamora: Miki Takii
Lucius: Rion Yanagimoto (Gekidan Q+)
Bassianus: Mark Yudai Iwasaki
Chiron: Hirotaka Kato (Gekidan Kakikuukyaku)
Demetrius: Mayumi Nanami (Gekidan Kakikuukyaku / Nanami no Ichimi)
Martius: Ryo Morimoto
Marcus Andronicus: Seiji Miyagawa
Mutius: Shin Hikage
Quintus: Natsuyama Tatsumoto (Kongo School Noh Performer)
Alarbus/Boy, etc.: Momoyo Tateno (SPAC)
Narrator: Yuukari Sanyutei (Rakugo Geijutsu Kyokai)
Live Music: Noh Yoshida (Ayame Juhachiban)
Aaron: Hiroichi Tate-gata
Original Work: W. Shakespeare 'Titus Andronicus'
Translation: Kazuko Matsuoka
Adaptation/Composition/Direction: Ryunosuke Kimura
Sound: Koji Ozono
Sound Operator: So Nozaki
Music: Noh Yoshida (Ayame Juhachiban)
Lighting: Naoyoshi Negoro (Top.gear)
Costumes: Maya
Art: Izumi Matsuoka
Assistant Director: Kosuke Hioki (DRAMATEC.)
Stage Manager: Stage Work URAK Co., Ltd.
Assistant Producer: Asuka Ono
International Producer: Nikodem Karolak
Producer: Ryunosuke Kimura
Support: 'From Kawaguchi to the World: Shakespeare' Supporters, Oizumi Kojo Co., Ltd.
International Production: InlanDimensions International Arts Network
Planning/Production/Organizer: To-Be Co., Ltd.
About 'Theatre Company Kakushinhan'
Founded in 2012 by director Ryunosuke Kimura. The company is known for its continuous performances of Shakespeare's works, gaining significant attention for its diverse, modern-sensibility direction. Since transitioning to a production-based system in 2020, the company has staged 'Shin-Titus REBORN' (2023) in a massive warehouse and has been selected for the 2026 Craiova International Shakespeare Festival, marking its leap onto the global stage as a company originating from Japan. Their multifaceted activities, including 'Open Shakespeare' (bringing theatre outside of traditional venues), the 'Yarumiru Manabu Theatre School', and book publications, have garnered attention from various media outlets.
HP: https://kakushinhan.org/
X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/kakushinhan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kakushinhan/
Inquiries: [email protected]
About Oizumi Kojo Co., Ltd.
Under the purpose of 'Filling the Earth with Smiles and Creating a Wonderful Environment,' Oizumi Kojo aims for a future where people and nature coexist. To contribute to a sustainable society, we engage in various businesses centered on wellness and environmental consciousness, including the production and sale of fermented sparkling tea '_SHIP KOMBUCHA', the operation of plant-based cafes, and the planning and management of farmers' markets.
Company Name: Oizumi Kojo Co., Ltd.
Representative: Kantaro Oizumi, CEO
Headquarters: 5-4-1 Ryoke, Kawaguchi, Saitama
Established: March 1938 (Founded March 1917)
Capital: 20,000,000 JPY
URL: https://www.oks-j.com/
*The information contained in this press release is current as of the date of the announcement and is subject to change without notice.